Int. Youth Exchange

Since 1962, the Lions Clubs of MD-4 have been sponsoring Youth Exchange with various foreign countries. The purpose of Youth Exchange is to provide today’s youth, our leaders of tomorrow, an opportunity to team with people and countries other than their own in an effort to promote world peace. Young people are given the opportunity of living with families in a foreign country for a few weeks to experience first-hand a new culture, history and a different way of life. The ultimate goal of this program is to promote international understanding.

PARTICIPATING COUNTRIES

AUSTRALIA

FINLAND

NETHERLANDS

AUSTRIA

GERMANY

NORWAY

BELGIUM

ITALY

PORTUGAL

DENMARK

JAPAN

SWEDEN

SWITZERLAND

STUDENTS WISHING TO GO ABROAD…

Age 17 to 21 (except Japan: ages 16 to 21)

5 week program

Live with 2 lion sponsored host families

2 weeks each in different parts of the country

1 week in International Camp

Enjoy lion sponsored activities

Visit famous sites

Camps

Learn foreign language

Enjoy exotic foods

Promote International understanding.

Fees* $2,500 – $2,700 all inclusive (partial aid available for those who qualify)

You can also contact your Local Lions Club. Additional information and all the necessary forms can also be found at the MD-4 Youth Exchange website.

For information on other youth exchange programs offered by Lions Club International, visit the LCI Youth Camp and Exchange Program website.

Applications for vetting foreign countries is due by February 28,2011. A $300 deposit is due with the application and passport (or proof of passport application). ANY APPLICATION RECEIVED PRIOR TO FEBRUARY 1, 2011 WELL HAVE $50.00 DEDUCTED FROM TOTAL.

Comments:

I had the honor and privilege of representing the Linda Lions Club on a Youth Exchange to Japan in 1985. The experience not only altered my perceptions about myself and the world in which I live for the better, but I truly believe it to be the single most memorable experience of my life next to the birth of my two children.

If you are thinking of going… GO!!! As scary as it may feel to be THAT far away from home, I promise you won’t regret it and you will have the time of your life.

If you are thinking of hosting… DO!!! There is no better way of demonstrating the sincerity and goodness of this country than to allow a complete stranger into your home and showing them what America is all about.

If you can help… HELP!!! YEP, as Blanche DuBois would say, has “always relied on the kindness of strangers.”

This is by far one of my most cherished memories. If you have any questions or would like to know more about my experience, please contact me. I will gladly assist anyone interested in participating in this remarkable program in any way possible.